“Analysis-paralysis” is an old term that still applies to many who hesitate – is today exactly, precisely the right time to buy?  Is this property so perfect in every respect that I can safely move on it, or should I wait for an even more perfect property?  Will I know more tomorrow that could change my decision?  Have I been correct in all my calculations, forecasts and research?  Is it really, truly the time to buy into real estate investing?

In a word:  YES! 

Why do I say that?  My 13+ years and 3,000+ properties have taught me that there is always opportunity, no matter what the economic weather looks like today.  I learned this:  I may not make a fortune on the next project, but I will make NOTHING if I am not doing any project at all!

• Opportunity does not come and go; it is always there.  Opportunity is something we find from what is out there today; it is something we make from what we have available.  Is the market going up – or is it coming down?  That isn’t a do-it or don’t-do-it decision.  It is a choice between Strategy: Going Up or Strategy: Coming Down. Both are active investments, just in different types of projects and marketing.

• No property or opportunity will ever be perfect in any good analysis – if it is, you are missing some facts!  Will it surprise you when I say that a real estate investor is not looking for a perfect property?  I would be out there for years and may never find it!  I know my resources and capabilities so I know what to avoid because I don’t have the expertise or the tools to deal with a specific bugaboo.  I know which drawbacks I can overcome and that is what I look for in my target profit opportunity.

• Market and economic trends don’t represent “invest” or “don’t-invest” signals for a real estate investor; rather, market changes signal a strategic direction change.  The bottom line is that waiting is losing out on the profits that are out there and available today.

Today, the market is in flux as it transitions from a long, sad, and gloomy period (for the pundits) to a recovery with rising home values and a more predictable inventory of homes for sale.  Those who knew how to make money during the foreclosure crisis and did not feel sad at all about their profits.  And now a window is opening on an amazing opportunity for new investors who are still learning the ropes, as well as seasoned pros.

Staying on the sidelines waiting for a magically obvious go-ahead sign will not grow your wealth!  Realistically assess your capabilities and resources, what problems you feel comfortable solving, and which are best left for others. Find the property that fits your strengths and weaknesses and make some money!

When did you invest in real estate “against the market” and make money?

Click our “Resources” tab and find 3 ways to continue your exploration of real estate investing.